Tanzania’s climate changes with its diverse landscapes, so expect variances in weather in different parts of the country.

January and February are generally the high seasons for travel in Tanzania, as the hot, dry weather is considered the most pleasant.

The best time to visit the Serengeti is late June to October, when the animals are most abundant.

Expect afternoon downpours during the wet season (from March to May); however, fewer tourists will be in Tanzania, so you won’t have to compete with crowds.

Learn more about the best time to visit Tanzania

Home to some of the earliest human remains in the world, the land now known as Tanzania could be one of the first inhabited by early humans.

Europeans arrived in the 15th century via the East Coast. The island of Zanzibar was first controlled by the Portuguese, then by Arabian traders interested in easy access to the Indian Ocean that allowed trade with Asia and beyond. Zanzibar became a pivotal place during the slave trade, with more than 100,000 enslaved people passing through during this period. 

Tanzania’s population is a vibrant mix of religions, races and cultures. Depending on what area you’re travelling in, be prepared to see a variety of cuisines, customs and dress, which directly reflect the diversity of the population.

Zanzibar is predominately Muslim; Maasai are primarily found in the North along with other indigenous tribes whose beliefs are largely animist; and Christians, Hindus and other minority groups can be found throughout the country.

Greeting styles and language differ according to ethnic or tribal group, but visitors can universally expect a warm welcome and a smile from most.

Top foods to try in Tanzania:

1. Seafood

Seafood lovers will adore the range of fresh seafood in Dar es Salaam and Zanzibar. From fragrant fish curries to barbecued shrimp and lobster, the waterfront markets and restaurants are full of wonders from the sea.

2. Indian cuisine

With a significant Indian population, Tanzanian cities have a fair share of Indian restaurants. Whether you’re visiting a budget cafe or a more extravagant restaurant, Indian cuisine is generally a good option for vegetarians, as there will always be a few meat-free options.

3. Mandazi

These sweet, fried breads can be found at markets and street stalls throughout East Africa, making a delicious, cheap snack. Although they can be flavoured differently, the ones made in Zanzibar usually feature fresh spices and coconut.

Bordered by Burundi, Kenya, Malawi, Mozambique, Rwanda, Uganda, Zambia and the Democratic Republic of Congo, Tanzania has one of the most diverse natural environments in the world.

While travelling through Tanzania, you’ll see sprawling savanna, dense woodlands, snow-capped mountain ranges, vast lakes and modern cities.

Tanzania is home to Africa’s highest peak and some of the most famous nature reserves in the world.

Tanzania’s former capital, Dar es Salaam, is a modern metropolis, while the regional centre of Arusha has retained a village feel.

Zanzibar is in its own category with its ancient cobbled streets and unique, heritage-filled buildings.

1. Serengeti National Park

The grassy savanna and open plains of Serengeti epitomise Africa at its wildest. Head out on safari in the early morning to search out Africa's 'Big Five'; buffaloes, lions, rhinos, leopards and elephants all call this park home.

2. Mt Kilimanjaro

Trekking to Mt Kili's peak has to be a major highlight of any trip to Africa. Hike past ice fields, grasslands and the odd cacti to the roof of Africa for the most amazing views on the continent.

3. Zanzibar

Arabic, Persian, African and Indian cultures mingle with the scent of fresh spices on this island. Relax on perfect beaches, sail turquoise waters aboard a dhow or head inland to explore tropical fruit orchards.

4. Ngorongoro Crater

This massive crater is 20km wide and home to enormous concentrations of African wildlife. Go out on safari in search of them and camp on the edge of the crater for incredible views of the animals roaming below.

5. Dar es Salaam

Balmy Dar es Salaam is a modern city with ancient origins. Old-world architecture sits beside a picturesque harbor, making it a great place to see Tanzania in a new light.

6. Lake Manyara

There's plenty of wildlife to search out in this national park, including tree-climbing lions. Yes, they climb trees! Take a safari to search them out.

7. Karatu

Leave the animals behind for some village R & R in Karatu. Set in the highlands and surrounded by coffee plantations, this town is the ideal spot to mingle with locals and try a cup of African coffee.

8. Usambara Mountains

These lush green mountains date back 25 million years and offer endless walking trails. Grab a guide, get hiking and learn about the unique flora and fauna that live here.

Credit cards are usually accepted by large hotels and western-style restaurants but not by smaller vendors. Ensure you have adequate cash to cover purchases not able to be made on credit.

ATMs are easily found in large cities and urban centres but are rarer in small towns, rural areas and villages. Be sure to have other payment methods available when venturing out of the big cities, as ATMs aren't always an option.

Many businesses and banks in Africa, especially East Africa, do not accept US dollar notes older than 2013. When exchanging USD into local currency, we strongly recommend using medium to large bills ($20, $50, $100) dated after 2013. The slightest marking can result in your bill being rejected, so check for torn, marked or damaged bills.